This past Sunday, the Whitsunday Golf Club hosted its June Monthly Medal and Least Putts competition, with 14 players braving the wet course conditions. The event, generously sponsored by Airlie Panel and Paint and Master Butchers Whitsunday, saw reduced participation due to the ideal fishing weather and some players opting to wait for drier playing conditions.
The persistent wet weather has been particularly challenging for smaller country courses, affecting player numbers. The club remains hopeful for the onset of the usual balmy winter weather to welcome back regular participants.
Competition Results:
Ladies A Grade:
   • Winner: Anna Winterbourn, nett 79
   • Runner-up: Tiina Randmae
   • Longest Drive: Tiina Randmae
Ladies B Grade:
   • Winner: Linda Wardroper, 79
   • Runner-up: Joanne Moynihan
   • Longest Drive: Linda Wardroper
Men’s A Grade:
   • Winner: Darren Reynolds, nett 69
   • Runner-up: George Meharry
   • Longest Drive: Andrew Albergo
Men’s B Grade:
   • Winner: Mark McDougal, nett 75 (countback)
   • Runner-up: David Hoy (countback from Wilf Herweg)
   • Longest Drive: Mark McDougal
Nearest to the Pin (NTPs):
   • Ladies: Anna Winterbourn and Linda Wardroper
   • Men: Darren Reynolds and David Hoy
Least Putts:
   • Tiina Randmae and Andrew Albergo
The NAGAs (Not A Golfer's Award) were humorously bestowed upon Tina Cook and Dean Kercher, with drinks provided by Aaron and Tracy Watts, owners of RADS Whitsunday.
Upcoming Events: No WGC competition will be held next Sunday due to the PGC Ladies’ and Men's 4somes championship over 27 holes. The following week, June 16th, features a single Stableford with times scheduled from 7 to 8 AM. Participants are encouraged to register early and proceed promptly to the RGH for food and presentation post-match.

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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Photo supplied

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This week at the local golf club, the 9-hole Stableford competition saw some closely contested scores among the players. Rob Lodders emerged victorious on Wednesday, securing first place with an impressive 23 points. Hot on his heels was Edwina Pettiford with 21 points, clinching second place, while Levi Smith rounded out the top three with 20 points on a countback.
The excitement continued into Friday's 9-hole Stableford, where Brad Low triumphed in a tight finish, taking first place with 21 points on a countback. Scott Hayes-Williams also scored 21 points for a countback second place, followed by Tim Walton in third with 21 points.
Sunday brought another layer of competition with the medal of the medalist event, where Glenn Rees excelled, recording a net score of 50. The Stableford competition saw Jayden Parata lead the field with 39 points. Rob Lodders was a close second with 38 points, and David Wallace secured third place with 37 points. The nearest-the-pin honours were shared by Jack and Scott Hayes-Williams, showcasing their precise golfing skills.
This coming Sunday promises more action with a 4BBB event scheduled from 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM. Participants and spectators alike are looking forward to another day of competitive play and camaraderie on the greens.
 

Contributed with thanks to Kate Cross

Glenn Rees, Photo supplied

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The Whitsunday Sea Eagles hosted the Moranbah Bulldogs this week, following a successful and respectful Indigenous Round against the Swans last weekend. The matches were filled with excitement and challenges across all age groups.
Under 17s End in Thrilling Draw
The Under 17s match was a highlight, ending in a nail-biting 48-48 draw. The Sea Eagles, eager to showcase their improvement after a Grand Final defeat last year and a preseason loss, dominated the first half. However, the Bulldogs came back strong in the second half, resulting in a fiercely contested game. The Sea Eagles Under 17s are now set to face the competition-leading North Mackay Saints this week, promising another thrilling encounter.
Under 12s Triumph with Commanding Victory
In a stellar performance, the Sea Eagles Under 12s secured a resounding victory against the Bulldogs, finishing 60-0. The young team started strong and maintained their momentum throughout the game, leaving the Moranbah opposition scoreless.
Tough Battles for Senior Women and Under 14s
The Senior Women’s team faced a formidable challenge against the higher-placed Bulldogs, compounded by the absence of several key players. Despite the odds, the Sea Eagles displayed resilience, ultimately falling 20-85. Their determination and spirit were commendable throughout the match.
The Under 14s, coming off two strong wins, encountered a spirited Moranbah Bulldogs team. Despite their efforts, they were unable to capitalize on their opportunities, ending with a 6-66 loss.
Upcoming Matches
The Sea Eagles are set to take on the North Mackay Saints at home this week, with the Seniors starting at 1:50 PM and the Juniors kicking off at 9:15 AM. The Sea Eagles are calling on their supporters to come out and cheer for all the teams as they face the formidable Saints.
The community’s support is crucial as the Sea Eagles strive for victory against strong opposition.

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Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Sea Eagles, Photo supplied

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This week’s matches at the Airlie Bowls Club saw fierce competition as Dom Friend and Joe Wilson continued their battle for the top spot in the premier league.
Key Results:
   • D. Friend 7-1 S. Edmonds
   • N. Mitchell 2-7 J. Lloyd
   • J. Lloyd 2-7 D. Friend
   • J. Wilson 7-3 N. Mitchell
Dom Friend impressed with two victories, defeating Scott Edmonds 7-1 and Jayden Lloyd 7-2. Joe Wilson retained his lead by beating Naomi Mitchell 7-3, thanks to a superior leg difference. Jayden Lloyd recovered from his loss to Friend by defeating Mitchell 7-2, leaving Mitchell with two losses on the day and second from the bottom with 2 points.
The Airlie Bowls Club thanks its sponsors Mika Airlie, Whitsunday Tattooing Airlie Beach, and Master Butchers Whitsundays for their support. Look forward to more exciting matches in the coming weeks.

Contributed with thanks to Jamie Maher.

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Whitsunday United faced a weekend of mixed results against tough competition in Mackay.

Friday Night: Division One and Two Men’s Teams
The Division One Men continued their impressive form with a 5-2 victory over Rangers. Stef and Rale each scored twice, with Radders adding the final goal. However, the Division Two Men narrowly lost 2-1 in a close match. Alistair Sawers scored his first goal for the club.

Saturday: Youth Matches
The U13 Division One team remains at the top of the leaderboard despite a 5-4 loss to Rangers. Alex Draper stood out with two goals from the left wing, while Charlie and Tyson F. each scored once. The game showcased the team’s excellent communication and growth.

The U13 Premier team, short-handed, faced a challenging match against Lions, losing 6-1. Seven players had to step up from the earlier Division One match. Remy Smart worked tirelessly in midfield, and Shannon Matthews scored from an Austin Kelly corner.

U15 Division One side started strong against Magpies, scoring two goals in the first 20 minutes. However, the game was abandoned due to a serious injury, resulting in a 2-0 win for WUFC.

Sunday: Senior Matches
On Sunday, the Division One team faced a tough game against Dolphins Silver, resulting in a 7-1 defeat. Dwayne earned player of the match for his relentless effort, and Sam's performance as a fill-in goalkeeper was commendable.

Women’s Teams: Premier and Reserves
The Women’s Premier and Reserve teams had a challenging away day at Magpies. Despite the setbacks, the Premiers remain second in the league, and the Reserves stay on top. There are still plenty of opportunities to rebound as the season progresses.

Men’s Teams: Premier and Reserves
The Men’s Reserves displayed promise despite a 2-1 loss to Rangers. Sam Blake scored, giving the team a 1-0 lead at halftime. However, Rangers scored twice in the second half to secure the win. With an average age of 16, our young team showed significant potential.

The Men’s Premier team delivered a strong performance, with an early goal from Jake Kenna, assisted by Josh Bond. After Rangers equalized, Mike O'Brien scored the decisive goal, securing a 2-1 victory. This win propels the team to the top of the league for the first time this season.
Overall, the weekend highlighted Whitsunday United’s resilience and potential. The teams demonstrated promise and determination, setting the stage for a competitive season ahead.
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Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic.

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The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club hosted its annual Presentation Night on Saturday, celebrating the achievements of its swimmers and the invaluable contributions of parents and volunteers. The evening was a resounding success, filled with recognition and pride.
Special Awards for 2024
   • Swim of the Year: Jy Parkinson (200m Butterfly Final at Age Nationals)
   • Sportsperson Award: Jacob Bell
   • Junior and Senior Trainer Awards: Harris Delac, Zach Trefz, Andie Reynolds, and Jacob Bell
   • Mudie Family 70’s Club Awards: Tiana Bell, Noah Maltby, Tora Delac, Charlie Doherty, Thomas Ganter, Jack Ganter, Zach Trefz, Ehsan Helou
   • Minute Club: Ehsan Helou for 100m Freestyle
   • Club Medal Awards: Maeve Dichiera, Harry Chegwidden, Jasper Korosec, Eric Mulliss, Jax Eaves, Dylan Reynolds, Stevie Lee, Murphy Jamieson, Mackenzie Bennett, Lily Maher
Club Championship Awards
Female Age Champions:
   • 7 years & Under: Indigo Harland
   • 8 years: Eloise Chegwidden
   • 9 years: Koa Harland & Evelyn Doherty
   • 10 years: Celeste Orenshaw
   • 11 years: Andie Reynolds
   • 12 years: Isabella Pisaniello
   • 13 years: Tora Delac
   • 14 years: Dylan Reynolds
   • 15 years: Tiana Bell
   • 16 years: Remy Hedges
Male Age Champions:
   • 7 years & Under: Lucas Korosec
   • 8 years: Miller Eaves
   • 9 years: Levi Smith
   • 10 years: Jax Clayworth
   • 11 years: Don Algie
   • 12 years: Thomas Ganter
   • 14 years: Charlie Doherty
   • 15 years: Ehsan Helou
   • 17 years: Jacob Bell
Record Setters at Cannonvale Cannons Swim Carnival
Congratulations to Eloise Chegwidden, Jax Clayworth, Ehsan Helou, Levi Smith, and Jacob Bell for setting new club records at the Cannons Carnival in April 2024.
Upgrade Certificates
Congratulations to all swimmers who achieved Upgrade Certificates: Zach Trefz, Miller Eaves, Indi Smith, Alex Trefz, Isaac Pisaniello, Celeste Orenshaw, Addie Sanders, Jax Eaves, Matilda Nicholes, Millie Groom, Don Algie, Maeve Dichiera, Sophie Palmero, Ruby Harland, and Andie Reynolds.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to the committee for organizing a successful season, and to the parents and coaches for their unwavering support. The Cannonvale Cannons Swimming Club looks forward to another year of outstanding achievements and community spirit.

Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen

Photos supplied

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The Whitsunday Touch Association's (WTA) Winter Season concluded on Monday night with Grand Finals in four divisions.
Holding the Grand Finals on a Friday night is a new approach by the WTA, aiming to attract a large number of supporters and enhance the evening's atmosphere.
Spectators can expect thrilling action, with the playing surface of the fields in excellent condition.
Come to the Sportspark for an enjoyable evening. You'll be well catered for with plenty of food and refreshments. The action starts at 6:00 pm.
Grand Final Games:
   • Mixed A Grade: In the Crear vs. Vipers
   • Mixed B Grade: Whitsunday Eagles vs. Raiders B
   • Mixed C Grade: Untouchables vs. Mighty Mustangs
   • Mixed Juniors: Hamo Rent vs. Raiders Blue

Preliminary Finals Results - Monday, June 3
   • Mixed A: Vipers 7 defeated Raiders A 2
   • Mixed B: Raiders B 9 defeated Ray White 5
   • Mixed C: Mighty Mustangs defeated Shed N Homes by forfeit
   • Mixed Juniors: Raiders Blue 6 defeated Raiders Purple 2

Come and join us for a fantastic night of touch football action and community spirit!
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Contributed with thanks to Alita DeBrincat

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The Whitsunday Game Fish Club held its Q & T rally on Saturday, drawing 14 dedicated members to a day of almost perfect weather and thrilling fishing.

New member "Frenchy" stole the spotlight, winning the best Trevally award with an impressive 107 cm GT, narrowly edging out Josh by just a couple of centimetres.

Jessy claimed victory in the Queenfish category with a 78 cm catch, beating both Josh and Steve in a close contest.

Future champion Benson Smith earned the title of best junior angler, accompanied by lots of cheers from the crowd.

In line with the club's conservation ethos, all fish caught during the event were released back into the water.

The club anticipates a busy year ahead, with numerous events planned, particularly for junior and lady members. More details on these exciting activities will be announced soon.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Game Fish Clubs

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Photos supplied

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On Saturday evening, five yachts set sail under a nearly full moon for the annual Full Moon race, covering approximately 30 nautical miles. Reignition (Charles Wallis) and Overdrive (Rupert King) vied for the lead at the start, with Manteca (Frank Tennyson), Rossgo (Greg Hammon), and Miss Behavin’ (John Morton) close behind. Reignition finished first, followed by Overdrive and Miss Behavin’. On corrected time, Miss Behavin’ emerged victorious, with Reignition and Overdrive in second and third.

The next race is the annual 'Round the Whitsundays race on July 6.

In the Whitsunday Sailing Club's weekly twilight race on Wednesday the conditions looked promising but unpredictable wind patterns challenged competitors.

Division 1
In Division 1, G’nome, skippered by Terry Archer, took the lead from the start after equipment failure delayed Joanne Norbury's boat, Frankie. G’nome dominated, finishing the course in 58 minutes, with Frankie trailing by a few minutes. On corrected time, G’nome secured a five-minute handicap victory.

Division 2
Charles Wallis’s Reignition led the Division 2 fleet from the start, while several favourites lagged behind. Bobby’s Girl initially led, with QMS Ponyo (John Galloway) and Reignition close behind. Black Jack, captained by Richard Anthony, made a strong comeback, overtaking Bobby’s Girl on the final leg to win by 32 seconds. Smooth Criminal (Leo Rodriguez) and QMS Ponyo followed nearly five minutes later. On corrected time, Bobby’s Girl won, followed by Wide Load (Shannan Hart) and Matchless (Terry Stevens).

Division 3
Rossgo, helmed by Greg Hammon, led Division 3, closely followed by Masquerade (Tom Vujasinovic). Lighthorse (Di Forster) and Lama (Alan Campbell) vied for third place. Rossgo crossed the finish line three minutes ahead, but on corrected time, Norbert G (Nigel Williams) claimed victory, with Lighthorse and Lama taking second and third.
The Whitsunday Sailing Club twilight series continues every Wednesday at 4:30 PM. Those interested in crewing should arrive by 2:30 PM.

Contributed with thanks to Ross Chisholm.

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Photos supplied

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Mackay Cutters have secured a historic rugby league championship double after capturing the 2024 BMD Womens Premiership.

In a unique feat the Cutters women showed their champion qualities to sink Norths Devils 16-6 in an absorbing Grand Final at Redcliffe’s Kayo Stadium to bring home the club’s second piece of silverware in the space of five weeks.

There were jubilant scenes last month when the Cutters lifted the inaugural Harvey Norman Under 19s Womens trophy with an 18-16 Grand Final triumph over Brisbane Tigers at Totally Workwear Stadium.

It was a double celebration for Mackay’s rising half back Mersades Lawson, hooker Paityne Johns and centre Miah Powell who can now boast Under 19s and BMD Premiership medals in the one season.

Gun forward Lily Peacock produced an outstanding best-on-ground performance for the Cutters – inspiring team mates with her bustling runs, clever passing and rugged defence.

Mackay notched three tries in the space of six minutes through North Queensland prop Sareka Mooka, number nine Alisha Foord and centre Jasmine Peters to jump to a handy 14-0 lead.

Norths hit back when fullback Montaya Hudson crossed for a vital four pointer that was converted by five eighth Georgia Hannaway before the interval.

Talented Cutters’ five eighth Kayla Shepherd scored the lone two points of the second half when she booted a late penalty goal.

Marco Peters’ champion Mackay squad can reflect on a memorable campaign that yielded nine victories and a draw from their eleven matches plus the minor and premiership titles.

Their only blemish was a 22-10 loss to the Burleigh Bears in a round seven preliminary fixture at UAA Park on the Gold Coast.

In winning both the Harvey Norman Under 19s and BMD Womens Premiership trophies the Cutters’ players and officials have etched their names in the Queensland Rugby League record books.

Mackay’s championship-winning BMD Womens Premiership squad for 2024 featured fullback Krystal Blackwell, wingers Libby Surha and Ebony Raftstrand-Smith, centres Shellie Long and Jasmine Peters, five eighth Kayla Shepherd and half back
Tahlulah Tillett, lock forward Lillian Yarrow, second rowers Shaniah Power and Bree Chester, prop forwards Lily Peacock and Essay Banu, hooker Alisha Foord with interchange props Lyrech Mara and Sareka Mooka, utility half Emily Bella and lock forward Pani Rupapere and Under 19s winning trio of half back Mersades Lawson, hooker Paityne Johns and centre Miah Powell.

Supplied by Chris Karas

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The Mackay Cutters have achieved a significant milestone in rugby league history by clinching a double championship victory in the 2024 BMD Women's Premiership. Image Credit: Mackay Cutters (Facebook)

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MACKAY Cutters returned to the winners list in Hostplus Cup action last weekend with a rousing 40-26 triumph over the PNG Hunters at BB Print Stadium.

The Cutters produced a spirited second half revival to sink their opponents and chalk up a fifth win from ten games played.

PNG led 20-10 at the break but failed to contain a rampaging Mackay line up that stormed to victory in the second stanza with a five try rout.

Hunters prop Junior Rop burst over to score the opening try of the match after three minutes that was converted by half back Jamie Mavoko before Cutters centre Josh Smith responded with the first of his two tries in the 11th minute.

The powerful Rop bagged a double soon after as the Hunters edged ahead but Mackay’s gun utility half Jaxon Purdue levelled proceedings when he evaded defenders to cross for a neat four pointer.

PNG centre Alex Max stamped his mark before the half time interval – scooting over for two tries in the space of four minutes to give the visitors a handy ten-point lead.

It was all the Cutters after lemons with prop Brandon Russell, five eighth Riley Dean, emerging forward Jamal Shibasaki, fullback Raydan Burns and the capable Smith crashing over for tries to blitz the Hunters.

Dean added six conversions to complete a morale-boosting win in front of a raucous local crowd.
The victory snapped a four-match losing streak for the rejuvenated Cutters who have a bye this weekend.

Supplied By Chris Karas

The QCCS Mackay Cutters took on the PNG Hunters in last Sundays afternoon clash. Image credit: Mackay Cutters (Facebook)

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Mackay Brothers earned bragging rights in the 2024 NQBE Mackay Junior League A Grade competition after toppling the Magpies 24-10 in their top of the table clash last Sunday at Sologinkin Oval.

The unbeaten Leprechauns turned in another polished performance to register their fifth consecutive win of the season and open up a four-point gap from their rivals.

Brothers scored four tries to two with crack centres Rydge Smith and Jayden Batchelor, second rower Declan Laird and hooker Daniel Kelly posting four pointers and Smith booting four conversions.

Souths Sharks remain entrenched in the top four after tossing Moranbah Miners 32-12 at Shark Park.

Back rower Frank Tuivaiti, centre Ali Okusitino, fullback Marmin Barba and half back Henri Stocks notched tries for Souths with Stocks potting six goals.

Moranbah half back Nat Hinchliffe and centre Mark Rosendale grabbed tries for the visitors.

Wests Tigers thumped Carltons Devils 70-10 at Tiger Park with five eighth Nicholas Baker contributing twenty points from a try and eight goals.

Other try scorers for Wests included skipper and second rower Darcy Cox (2), winger Brydon Smith (2), fullback Connor McDermott, hooker Tait Poli, centres Zack Walker and Tyler Holmes, Will Goodland, lock Kellen Jenner, back rower Bradley Simpson and winger Joran Schoenmaker.

Sarina Crocodiles had too many big guns for the Whitsunday Brahmans, carving out a 40-14 triumph at Les Stagg Oval.

In Under 15 Boys action, the Wanderers Roosters and Wests Tigers remain undefeated after seven rounds.
Wanderers downed arch rivals Mackay Magpies 28-8 with talented centres Cliff Hussey (2) and Amos Grigg and prop Xavier Wayman (2) notching tries and half back Isaac McFarlane booting four goals.

The Tigers rolled Brothers Blue 16-6 with promising hooker Marik Srsen, fullback Jed Spreadborough and  centre Zac Hansen crossing for tries and centre Chevy Bartolo landing two goals in an absorbing tussle.

The Brothers' relentless performance last Sunday resulted in a commanding victory over the Magpies.
Photo Credit: Jessica Wilson Photography

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Friday saw the second week of the three-week 2024 Remembrance Pairs competition. This competition is to remember past players and members who are no longer with us and who contributed to building the club into what it is now. It is also to remember present members who have and continue to contribute, as well as to welcome and mentor our newest members to the club.

Weekly Results
Monday 20 May 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild

2nd
Antonia Tarradas / Victor Mason
2nd
Geoff Cowan / Sandy Patterson

3rd
Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait
3rd
Ian Cruickshank / Mary Cruickshank

Tuesday Evening 21 May 2024 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Mick King / Richard Wix
3rd
Alan Brown / Israel Hall
4th
Janine Rodgers / Nancy Wix
Wednesday 22 May 2024 – 7 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
2nd
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Josie Crowley / Barbara Tait
4th
David Ting / Ming Ting
5th
Joy Robinson / Robert Carless
6th
Annette Howe / Noel Saunders
Thursday Evening 23 May 2024 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy
2nd
Susan Ross / Jan Harris
3rd
Vicki Howard / Richard Wix
4th
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore
Friday 24 May 2024 – Week 2 of 3 Remembrance Pairs – 12 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st
Ming Ting / Debra Goodchild

2nd
Diane Stokes / Joy Robinson
2nd
Janine Rodgers / Geoff Cowan

3rd
Helen Van Den Broek / Don Josie Crowley
3rd
Julie O’Neill / Sue Mayer-Miller

3rd
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
4th
Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson

5th
Nancy Martin / Gwen Liddell
5th
Susan Wright / Clre Wallace

6th
Kath Poole / Monica Darley
6th
Noel Bugeia / Pamela Finger

Saturday 25 May 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
1st
Julie O’Neill / Griffin Bancroft

2nd
Ming Ting / David Ting
2nd
Frances Brown / Alan Brown

3rd
Monica Darley / Toni Large
3rd
Janine Rodgers / Terry Sheedy

4th
Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright
4th
Patricia Garner / Geoffrey Patterson

Sunday 26 May – Novice & Mentors 7 Tables Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Joy Block / David Ting
1st
Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson

2nd
Janice Mansfield / Griffin Bancroft
2nd
Frances Brown / Israel Hall

3rd
Carmel Brown / Mary Rose Ramsden
3rd
Faith Hutchinson / Anne Lutz

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Two of Australia’s most celebrated Olympic legends will be heading to the BMA Mackay Marina Run on Sunday 2 June 24.

Olympian and London Marathon Age World Record holder, Krishna Stanton will pace out the 21.1km half marathon in Mackay at a time of 1 hr and 45 minutes while Athletics Australia Hall of Fame Inductee, Benita Willis, will also attend as an ambassador.

Krishna represented Australia at numerous World Cross Country Championships, World indoor Championships (3000m), the Commonwealth Games (10,000m) in Victoria, Canada, and the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona (3000m).

Krishna was the winner of the Sydney City to Surf in 1992, a Silver medallist in the marathon at the Manchester Commonwealth Games and 2002 and is still running to this day, having broken the World Record for the Women's Marathon in the 55-59 age group at the London Marathon in 2022.

Born in Mackay (and now residing at the Gold Coast), Benita Willis is regarded as Australia’s greatest female distance runner.  Benita has had an illustrious sporting career and is a three-time national champion in the women’s 5,000 metres. In 2004 Willis achieved one of the most significant victories in Australian athletics when she won the World Cross Country Championships.

Benita is the only Australian ever to win this race — arguably the hardest race in the world. Benita has represented Australia in four Olympics, held numerous championship records (some that still stand today) and was inducted into the Athletics Australia Hall of Fame in 2018.

Event Director, Tim said having two influential Australian runners involved in the event was a huge win for regional Queensland.

Said Tim, “These two ladies are two of the best in terms of Australian running and for our race entrants to have the opportunity to run with Olympic legends of this calibre is pretty special.”

Advised Tim, “The sport of running is really unique, it’s all about community, challenging and supporting each other and I can’t think of a more amazing way to push yourself than taking on the pace set by an Olympic champion.”

Interest in the BMA Mackay Marina Run continues to grow each year with this year’s event even attracting a small cohort of international runners.

Tim advised, “Entries in this year’s half marathon are about to hit 600 which is a record for us.  We also will be welcoming 4 international runners to Mackay which is a coup for us and for profiling our region globally.”

Now in its 16th year, the BMA Mackay Marina run will raise much needed funds for local Leukaemia Foundation services and programs.

Since its inception, the event has raised more than $600,000 to support local families in their fight against blood cancer.

Registrations for this year’s 21.1km half marathon, 10km and 5km fun runs and 3km kids dash will close Saturday 1 June at 4pm.

To register, visit mackaymarinarun.com

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What: BMA Mackay Marina Run
When: Sunday 2 June, 2024
Where: Mackay Marina QLD 4740
Info: www.mackaymarinarun.com

Two esteemed Olympic legends from Australia will grace the BMA Mackay Marina Run on Sunday, June 2nd.

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With the more popular State & National Masters Championship events now in the recent past the club turned its attention to a more challenging and adventurous activity according to some members. A short time ago our secretary insisted we should be enjoying our back yard more and swimming some local waters.
Thus, the “Four Dams in One Day” concept was launched in Summer but actioned on Saturday 25th May with a few short days of our northern autumn remaining. A quick ring around and NQ Truck and Car rentals had a small 12-seater bus for us to hire at a great rate and the road trip was on. Except of course we were oversubscribed with willing guinea pigs for this “Cool” adventure and ended up with a sort of tag along tour as well. As we proceeded deeper into the Pioneer valley all eyes were on the ascent to Eungella which was again shrouded in clouds, mist and drizzle. Eungella delivered its aboriginal meaning “Land of the Cloud” in a true and cruel twist of the weather. None the less we pressed on to the first stop at the top of the range to enjoy the range in what turned into a short comfort stop before we all hastily returned to the warm confines of the vehicles.
With the enthusiasm quickly diminishing we were buoyed by the first rays of sunshine as we crossed the divide into the rain shadow past this escarpment and approached the first swim (of four) in Eungella Dam. Fourteen intrepid swimmers took the first plunge into what turned out to be 21 degrees of “Wake up Wally” water as we set off on a 15 minute out and back swim. The consensus was that the swim was well worth the effort but the team wanted a treat!
Next stop was near water but not in it at the fabulous “Eden Café” on the Digging’s Road. Warm drinks and some treats were enjoyed before we set off for Teemburra Dam and swim #2, in mostly bright sunshine as the weather turned favourable. With more interest and a little practice on rigging for swimming mode we made good time in entering, swimming and getting ready for another move. But as swimmers and Sinkers know not without sustenance as we managed a short break and enjoyed a picnic lunch before someone upset the Pidgeon’s with a “Lets Go” call!
Kinchant Dam was the site for our third swim which proved pleasant enough with swimmers now like a well-oiled machine taking to the water without fear as they followed the bank and dam wall marker buoys in another pleasant swim.
In no time at all we had reboarded and hit the road for the Pioneer River at Balnagowan for our final swim in one of our favourite spots. All bar one re-entered the water and set off for a swim to suit ability before returning to the pontoon for some glam photo opportunities.
We managed some 300km for the day with 14 swimmers that completed a distance and time suitable to ability, our most senior member was 80 and some young guns in the 30 plus area. Some swimmers managed 6km across the 4 swims and others 2- 4km in a unique and interesting format of 4 swims of 30 minutes during a great day out in Pioneer valley.
The event was available to members only but we are happy for guest swimmers to join us for training sessions (up to a calendar month) to get a sense of club activities and vibe.
Our next membership option is the 6-month period from July 1st to December 31st 2024 so now is the perfect time to come and try a session and get back into swimming for fun and fitness, reaching goals or maybe a return to the blocks for that competitive spirit. Regardless of your focus the club will help you reach that small or aspirational goal in a supportive environment.
Sinkers Sessions
Mondays: 515pm for 530-630pm (Millie Monday - coached)
Wednesdays: 515pm- for 530-630pm (Whiteboard Wednesday, led from the pool)
Saturday: 08-0900am (Social Saturday, led from the pool followed by coffee and a treat!)
(for further information visit www.facebook.com/NthMackaySinkers or phone 0413 805 156)

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Swim 1, Swimmers returning to shore at Eungella Dam.
Swim 2. Swimmers after the Teemburra Dam swim, all agreed this was the best of the 4 swims. Images Supplied.

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